Anticipation

Not having a camera is the pits. That's why I don't post very often because it is so much more fun to have pictures. Alas, I'll try to quickly update with words.
We had our ward Halloween Party on Friday. Kids had so much fun. We had trick-or-treating to different classrooms, games, coloring, pinatas, more treats and a dance! Macy is the little dancing girl. She loves to dance. She was so cute to watch. At that age, they aren't self-conscious and they are too cute anyway. Stan and I even dressed up. Someone must have taken a picture.
Today is my 29th birthday. I feel pretty young, same as I did when I was 20 except that I have 3 kids and I've been married for over 7 years. I'm actually in better physical shape than I was when I was 20. My visiting teachers had me over for lunch. One of them is super party girl. She made a quadruple layer sandwich that was shaped like a flower. It looked like a cake but it was a sandwich and it was so yummy and fun. I get to enjoy one more year in my 20s before I enter the next decade. I'm not scared or worried. What are years anyway?! I'm happy to be the age I am and I don't plan on that changing. My birthday present this year is thanks to Stan's parents who are taking us all on a 7 day cruise in the Caribbean! (By this I mean, all of stan's siblings and spouses, no children!) Stan got off the hook this year. I'll give him a whole year to plan my next birthday, the big 30. We leave Edmonton on November 6. I'm sure you all can imagine how excited I am for warm weather, nice beaches, amazing food, and even better company! To prep us for it, my sister-in-law and I are spending 3 hours at the spa this Saturday, getting our hair cut, and having a pedicure. I feel so spoiled! I'll be sure to post pictures, we are getting a camera before the trip.

General Conference

I always look forward to and really enjoy general conference weekend!
I was asked to speak in Church next Sunday so I had a focus for conference. It helped and now that it is over, I'm glad I really get to study the talks more and come up with something to say in my talk that will be helpful and uplifting in our sacrament meeting.
Many insights came that were needed in my life right now. We are all still adjusting to Stan's new calling in the bishopric. The best advice I received was from President Monson's life history that played yesterday between sessions. I've been praying to feel comforted, helped, blessed with extra patience, and being more supportive to Stan as he is required to sacrifice much time and energy. I thought again of covenants we have made in the time to give of our time, talents etc. This is a part of life! As Elder Wirthlin said (from his mother), "Come what may and love it!"
The other talk I really enjoyed was President Monson's Sunday morning talk. He spoke much of gratitude. Ingratitude being among the most serious of sins and Gratitude one of the noblest virtues, or something like that. He spoke of "Enjoying the journey, NOW!" Time never stops and moments pass all too quickly. I think there was something from each talk that stuck out to me but these were most significant to me right now. I'm so grateful for living prophets! I feel so blessed to have continuos revelation and guidance for me and my family.

Banff

We spent the last weekend of September in Banff for a race and much needed family vacation. We stayed at a great hotel with waterslides and indoor playground for the kids. My parents met us there to help with the kids while we ran. Stan's parents ran in the race as well. It was beautiful there! A little chilly for the race but no snow! We had an amazing view of the mountains from our hotel room. I miss the mountains so much.
The race was the big one for me this year. I ran a 22k, Stan and parents the 10k. It's a pretty tough course, with several small hills. I was in better shape than I ever had been and I felt good for most of it. I really have enjoyed these last few months of training and the race was a great ending to it. My time was good enough for me. I'm still in recovery mode. I really miss running but my body needs the rest. I'm trying to be patient as it recuperates.
I'll post some pictures when we get them on our computer. We celebrated Stan's 31st birthday while there. It was a great weekend with family.
Here is a link to a few pictures of me during the race.

http://www.fleetfeetphotos.com/Searchm.aspx?eid=70&tp=marathon&ID=532621&bib=6342&pwd=1